Yorkshire steals old rival's towering glory in War of the Roses land grab

It might not exactly count as a full-scale invasion under international law but in one small corner of Lancashire, it is a takeover which must surely stick in the craw.

In a step being jokingly likened to the Wars of the Roses, one of county’s most picturesque areas – and arguably its highest peak – has been officially taken fully into the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Today’s extension will virtually join up these precious natural assets, supporting the local economy, creating jobs and securing the area’s reputationAndrea Leadsom

Coincidentally, the expansion came into effect on Yorkshire Day, which was established in 1974 after a local government reorganisation redrew the county’s boundaries, with some areas suffering the indignity of being moved into Lancashire.

The expansion of the Dales is part of a reorganisation intended to resolve “unfinished business” after the creation of the national parks.

Two of Britain’s best loved protected areas – the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District National Park – have both undergone a major extension, almost connecting them and adding another 200 square miles to their combined land mass.

Although the Yorkshire Dales National Park always stretched into Cumbria, the area extending into the neighbouring country has more than doubled.

For the first time, it also crosses into Lancashire, taking in the whole of Gragareth, the 2,060ft mountain which forms the boundary between the two historic counties. There is debate over whether Gragareth or the nearby Green Hill is the higher.

Previously the trig point, marking the official peak, sat just yards outside the official boundary of the national park but is now firmly inside the protected area.

But while the area now comes under the control of the national park, it remains part of Lancashire. Officials have also been careful to respect local sensitivities, ensuring that signs will label the area the Eden Dales rather than Yorkshire Dales.

Andrea Leadsom, the Environment Secretary, said: “The Dales and Lake District are part of our nation’s proud identity – immortalised by WH Auden and Wordsworth, they are home to some of our country’s most beautiful and rugged landscapes.

Andrea Leadsom, the new Environment Secretary, welcomed the extension of the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District National ParkCredit:
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“Today’s extension will virtually join up these precious natural assets, supporting the local economy, creating jobs and securing the area’s reputation as one of our country’s most attractive tourist destinations for generations to come.”

National Parks contribute £4 billion to our economy each year – from Wensleydale cheese to Herdwick lamb they are also home to over one third of England’s protected food names.

The Government decision to extend the boundary is an illustration of how important national parks are to the people and to the fabric of this countryCarl Lis

With tourism responsible for 13 per cent of rural employment and 10 per cent of rural businesses, today’s extension will not only attract more people to the region, but could potentially create hundreds more jobs and boost local economies.

Carl Lis, chairman of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, said: “The Government decision to extend the boundary is an illustration of how important national parks are to the people and to the fabric of this country.

“For the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, the hard work starts now.

“But through our passion for this special place, working alongside local people and businesses, we will ensure it remains a thriving area: its unique cultural landscape will be treasured for its stunning scenery, exceptional heritage and wonderful wildlife, and every year millions of people will be inspired to be a part of it.”